UPDATE: Detectives name man killed in Hackney stabbing

The victim of a fatal stabbing in Hackney has been named as 20-year-old Jason Junior Romeo.

Police were called to reports of an altercation in Bodney Road, E5 at 17:59hrs on Tuesday, 18 February. Officers and the London Ambulance Service worked to treat Jason at the scene but he sadly died as a result of a stab wound.

Officers arrested a 25-year-old man and a 23-year-old man later that evening on suspicion of murder and possession with intent to supply a Class B drug (cannabis). They were taken to a police station and were subsequently released with no further action in relation to the murder. They were bailed for the other offence. Enquiries continue.

Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen, leading the investigation in Hackney, said: “Jason had his whole life ahead of him but this senseless attack has taken that from both him and his loved ones. Our continued thoughts go out to his family, who are being supported by specialist officers.

“If anyone saw this incident, or was nearby, please do share that information with officers. We are especially interested in any footage from the surrounding area.”

The public can contact the police via 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with any information, reference CAD 5635/18Feb.

A crime scene will remain in place until the forensic investigation has concluded.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, who leads policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: “It is absolutely devastating for Jason’s family and extremely distressing for our communities that another young life has been taken away as a consequence of knife crime. We continue to work closely with our local community partners and Hackney Council to tackle the causes and effects of knife crime.

"I repeat an appeal I have sadly had to make too frequently. If any young person feels they need to carry a knife please speak to a parent, carer, teacher, youth leader or adult you trust and we can get you the support to step back from that decision safely.

"I will have additional uniformed and plain clothed officers working in the area as a consequence of this tragic event. While the investigation continues to work to understand the motive for this attack, we will work tirelessly to reduce the risk of any further violence.”